Best Practices

1. Template Preparation

• Project Optimization

• The lighter and more streamlined a project is (containing only the strictly necessary elements), the more effective the automation process becomes. An optimized structure reduces rendering times and facilitates processing by the machines.
  
  
• Note : Remove all unnecessary elements, including remnants of previous or obsolete productions, to avoid confusion or unnecessary overload.
  
  
• It is highly recommended to maximize the use of Essential Properties when structuring After Effects projects. This ensures efficient automation when integrating into Automate-IT.
  https://helpx.adobe.com/after-effects/using/essential-properties.html
  
  
• Whenever possible, pre-render complex or heavy effects or animations within the project. This significantly reduces final rendering times and minimizes errors during automated processing.
  
  
• Parameters or effects controlled by checkboxes or sliders within the project must be clearly identified and named. Ensure their usage is intuitive, and it is preferable to group all these controls into a single control composition. Any documentation (instructions, guides, etc.) to facilitate the proper use of the project is highly appreciated.

• Standardization of Durations

Standardized durations greatly simplify all processes. When durations are calibrated and systematic, they improve operational efficiency. Consider the benefits of uniform durations.
Example: Can the closing pack of a trailer consistently last 7 seconds?
If the answer is yes, this will optimize your workflows and streamline automation.

2. Project delivery

2.1. List of Deliverables:

• Inclusion of Footage

Projects must be delivered with all their associated footage and resources (logos, pre-rendered animated backgrounds, etc.). Use the "Collect Files" feature in After Effects to ensure everything is included in the delivery.

• Fonts Used

Provide all the fonts used in the project. These fonts must be installed on the rendering machines to ensure a consistent output.

• Plugins and Specific Effects

If the project uses plugins or effects not included in the default version of After Effect:

• Ensure these can be installed on the rendering machines.
• For paid plugins, arrange the necessary licenses in advance.
• Reference Documents

Provide examples of all reference and work documents that will be used in the expected workflows (purchase orders, Excel spreadsheets, etc.)

• Graphic Documentation

Supply all relevant documentation regarding the graphic charter of the productions involved (color codes, typography, layout guidelines, etc.).

2.2. Test Kits and References

• Clean Source Kit:

Provide a set of "clean" sources elements to test the project in various scenarios of asset customization. Include multiple examples of each type of produced asset. If your sources vary in codec, duration, etc., provide a representative selection.

• Examples of Rendered Assets :

Deliver rendered examples of all possible variations (logo placement, versioning, etc.). These visual references will help validate the proper functioning of the projects once automated.